Senior Technician in Optical Manufacturing

University of South Hampton; Southampton; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research institution in Southampton seeks a Senior Technician to support the development of advanced optoelectronic devices. This role involves operating state-of-the-art equipment and collaborating with researchers on innovative projects. Candidates should have hands-on experience in laboratory work and a relevant qualification. The position is fixed-term until July 2028, with a focus on contributing to the UK's photonics sector.

Benefits

Staff benefits

Networking opportunities

Career development support

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience in laboratory work or manufacturing.
• Experience in cleanroom fabrication or assembly of optical components.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain fabrication and characterisation equipment.
• Contribute to advanced laser laboratories as required.
• Create high-performance optical components.

Skills

Laboratory work

Manufacturing

Cleanroom fabrication

Communication skills

Mentoring

Education

HND, Degree, NVQ4 or similar

Tools

Fabrication and characterisation equipment

Polishing systems

Cleanroom instruments

Material analysis tools

Job description

Overview

Senior Technician in Optical Manufacturing at the Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC), University of Southampton. With over 300 staff and students, the ORC is an internationally recognised hub for cutting-edge research delivering real-world impact across manufacturing, communication technologies, augmented reality, healthcare, renewable energy, and environmental solutions.

We are excited to invite applications to support a welcoming and collaborative team of world-leading researchers. The role focuses on development and production of advanced optoelectronic devices for applications such as quantum technologies, integrated optical sensors, and laser optics. You will support a wide range of fabrication and characterisation activities, working with researchers on academic and industrial projects that aim to scale up manufacturing processes for wider adoption. A core part of this role is close collaboration with industry to translate research into tangible innovations for the UK’s growing photonics sector.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain state-of-the-art fabrication and characterisation equipment, including ultra-precision tools, polishing systems, cleanroom instruments, and material analysis tools.
• Contribute in advanced laser laboratories and other university facilities as required.
• Apply attention to detail and commitment to excellence to help create high-performance optical components that advance research goals and commercial partnerships.

Who We’re Looking For

• Qualification equivalent to an HND, Degree, NVQ4, or similar, with relevant experience.
• Practical, hands-on experience in laboratory work, manufacturing, cleanroom fabrication, or the assembly of optical components and systems.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively, with strong communication and mentoring skills to support researchers and PhD students.

The initial appointment is based on a fixed term post until 31/07/2028, ideally starting in August 2025.

Working at the University of Southampton

Check out the staff benefits and why you should join us at The University of Southampton.

We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcome applicants who support our mission of inclusivity.

The University is a signatory of the Technician Commitment and a partner affiliate of the National Technician Development Centre (NTDC). We offer a wide range of opportunities including networking, mentoring, training, professional registration and career development. By joining you will be part of a larger technical community, offering support and guidance.

Apply by 11.59 pm GMT on the closing date. For assistance contact Recruitment on [phone] or [e-mail] quoting the job number.